Ministry says 'No' to Tourism Authority over reopening drinking bars

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has moved swiftly to cancel a circular by the Ghana Tourism Authority paving the way for a number of hospitality businesses, including drinking bars, to reopen operations.

According to the Ministry, while “Food Chains and Restaurants (including Hotel Restaurants) can operate takeout and delivery services only”, drinking bars and all night clubs remain closed.

The directive signed by the sector minister, Barbara Oteng-Gyasi urged the public to note that the circular from the Ministry supersedes the one issued by the Ghana Tourism Authority, industry regulator.

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The regulator had issued the earlier guidelines, which it said followed President Akufo-Addo’s address to the nation on Sunday 10th May, 2020.

The closure of hotels and drinking bars form part of measures instituted by the government to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease, which has so far affected 5,408 people and been associated with 24 deaths.